Godfrey Sono and Sibusiso Vilakazi launched mo-Wash in 2012, mobile hand washing units. The stand-alone, fully automatic portable unit requires no plumbing or drainage, it provides a cost-effective hygiene solution at functions. Upon attending numerous funerals, the two gentlemen saw a gap in the market. In the South African culture, it is customary to wash hands after the gravesite has been visited.
The washing of hands is a very important part of African culture but can be quite unhygienic as often, many wash their hands in that one basin. They realized that there were many outdoor events that have mobile ablution systems, but no adequate hygienic facilities for one to wash his or her hands afterwards.
“We were inspired by the freedom to create our own destiny when we could no longer take what is customary behaviour to wash hands after coming back from the cemetery at a funeral. Imagine how many people washed their hands before you and how contaminated the water is” said Sono and Vilakazi.
Statistics show that up to 80% of communicable diseases are transferred by touch and proper handwashing can reduce diarrhoea rates by 40% and respiratory infections by close to 20%. Therefore, regular handwashing can help prevent illness and is one of the best ways to remove germs, avoid getting sick, and prevent the spread of germs to others.
mo-Wash’s includes a hands-free water delivery system, does not require a foot pump, a timer that controls water flow, a solar panel to power the wash station, advertising space for brands, and pop-up Wi-Fi. They also deliver the default 10-second wash which can be adjusted by the owner, according to his or her needs.
“mo-Wash is a sure way of assisting the country to achieve two of the “2030 Sustainable Development Goals” which are Clean Water & Sanitation (SDG 6) and Good Health & Well-being (SDG 3). We would like to see mo-Wash being a permanent feature in all our public areas offering handwashing facilities to carry out handwashing activities,” concludes Sono and Vilakazi.
